Diplomatic ties bear mutual benefits

SIBU: The wisdom of former leaders from both Malaysia and China in forming the diplomatic relations five decades ago is hailed as a precious relationship that derives mutual fruits of enjoyment.

Pointing out this, Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee said China is now a rising power in the world, a fact which no country can no longer ignore.

“China is coming up very strongly in trading, economic and in all kinds of business. It is encouraged for China and Malaysia especially Sarawak to form various groups to visit each other to have dialogue to find out what we need in both countries’ markets to see what we can collaborate especially trading, tourism and cultural exchanges which will benefit both countries in the long run,” he said at the “one Belt and one Road” forum held at United Chinese Association (UCA) premises here on Saturday.

Tiang speaks at the event’s opening ceremony.

The event was organised by UCA in cooperation with Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce Sarawak Branch, Datuk Lau Nai Hoh Foundation and Hao Yi Development Sdn Bhd China, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

On the forum, the Pelawan assemblyman hoped a study to look into the matter, especially one Belt and one Road initatives initated by President of the Republic of China, Xi Jinping, would be undertaken.

The event was participated by about 200 representatives from various associations, unions and schools.

Among those present were Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching, Xing Weiping, UCA president, Lau Ing Siong and Datuk Lau Nai Hoh.

The speakers of the forum were Dr Wu Er bei Mi, lecturer in the History Department at Jinan University, Guangzhou, China, and Professor Tang Hau Ming, lecturer in the Economics Department of the Bachelor’s Programme at Methodist Pilley Institute, Sibu.

Wu presented the topic entitled “The Belt and Road Initiative” and Sarawak’s Comprehensive Cooperation whereas Tang touched on The Belt and Road Initiative’s Impact on Sarawak’s Economic Development and Opportunities for Local Businesses.